Trains and organizes lay persons for caring ministry
in and around the congregation.
Increases significantly the number of church members
equipped to provide quality Christian care so that fewer of those in
need "fall between the cracks."
Gives pastors and full time church staff renewed joy
and satisfaction as they equip others and are linked with persons to
whom they will be ministering.
Enables those who receive care to grow in a deeper
relationship with their Lord.
Encourages those cared for to care for others, to
"love as they have been loved."
Builds a strong and supportive ministry team between
pastor and lay people who together bring God's care to others.
Enables the entire congregation to grow as a warm,
loving, nurturing community.
Increases greatly the congregation's caring ministry.
Stephen Ministers...
Are lay people in the congregation who care, really
care.
Receive an initial 50 hours of training in topics and
skills related to caring ministry.
Are commissioned by the congregation and are linked
with the first persons to whom they will be ministering.
Receive regular support and supervision for their
ministries.
Apply caring skills to other important relationships
and discover that their own lives are enriched.
Provide ongoing Christian care to people experiencing
a wide range of life needs or crises, including...
Those in families affected by alcohol or chemical
dependency
New members in church or community
The hospitalized
The disabled and handicapped
The lonely or depressed
The bereaved
The terminally ill
Those in job crisis
Those in spiritual crisis
and many more
If you are going through a difficult time in your life
and feel a Stephen minister would be helpful, contact a pastor at
the church office, 734-2677.
